Digestive Health for Cats

What are cat gastrointestinal and digestive disorders?

A digestive disorder (gastrointestinal disorder) is any condition that prevents proper digestion or alters the rate at which food passes through the digestive tract. Digestive disorders are one of the most common reasons for consulting a veterinary practice.

Digestive disorders can lead to dehydration, malnutrition or other serious health issues so it is important to recognize the signs and consult with your veterinarian.

What are the types and causes of cat digestive disorders?

There are many different types of digestive disorders. The causes of digestive disorders range from eating something different or not appropriate for cat to inflammation of gastrointestinal organs, food intolerance or sensitivities, infections, or lack of digestive enzymes. Some cat breeds such as Sphynx, Rex and Ragdoll are more prone to particular digestive problems. Your veterinarian may carry out tests to determine the exact cause of your cat’s GI problem.

COLITIS

More common in cats under the age of 5, colitis causes inflammation of the large intestine that results in frequent, painful passing of feces. If your cat is experiencing colitis, it may contain mucus and blood. Most frequently, colitis is caused by tumors or polyps, a change in food, allergies (including those to food), swallowed foreign objects and certain other diseases.

PANCREATITIS

An inflammation or infection of the pancreas (an elongated, tapered gland that is located behind the stomach). Origins are frequently unknown. Potential causes are decreased blood flow (due to dehydration, or other disease processes) infections, disease or trauma.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME

Commonly associated with chronic inflammation and discomfort of a cat’s bowels, but is typically not directly linked to gastrointestinal disease. Some suspected causes include food intolerances and the ability of the cat food to effectively pass through the gastrointestinal tract. Mental distress can also be a contributing factor for this condition.

EXOCRINE PANCREATIC INSUFFICIENCY

This condition is characterized by weight loss, increased appetite and large amounts of soft feces. Chronic pancreatitis is the most common cause.

SMALL INTESTINAL MALABSORPTION

Inflammation of the small intestine impairs nutrient absorption and results in persistent diarrhea, weight loss and loss of appetite in your cat.

Does my cat have a gastrointestinal or digestive disorder?

The most common signs of cat stomach problems and digestive disorders are soft stools or diarrhea. You may also notice some or all of the following signs in your cat.

Vomiting

Regurgitation

Flatulence

Weakness

Diarrhea or constipation

Chronic digestive disorders can be a debilitating problem for many cats and requires testing and a thorough diagnosis from your veterinarian.

IMPORTANT: If your cat has diarrhea or is vomiting, she may become severely dehydrated. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs.

Choosing the right cat food for digestive health.

The right digestive care food can help relieve tummy troubles, resolving diarrhea and improving digestion. If your cat is showing the signs of a digestive disorder, ask your vet if you should switch your cat’s food.